WHAT IS A RELIQUARY? }A reliquary is defined as a receptacle to contain a relic of a saint, sacred object, or something treasured. As such, reliquaries provide us with a very special way to maintain a tangible link to that which is important to us.

Animals hold a special place in our lives—as beloved friend, family member and, sometimes even, teacher. When a pet dies, a reliquary allows us to keep their memory alive and close.

The permanently sealed reliquary lockets I create are designed to hold a small memento of your pet: ashes, hair, a feather, whisker, or photo, in honor of the important relationship you had. In this way, they are present even in their absence.

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In memory of Ms. Moppet

In 1991, my cat of 23 years, Ms. Moppet, passed away. Moppet and I had grown up together and it was a very difficult transition. I wanted something that would remind me of the valuable things she had taught me, and of what it felt like to be loved by her. When I received her ashes it was clear how utterly important they were to me as a way of preserving that vital connection.

Jewelry is an art form that has an ancient tradition of embodying and expressing love and intimacy between people. The reliquaries I design apply that principle to our love for our animals.

As a metalsmith, I became interested in the historical form of reliquaries as a way for me, through my art, to preserve Moppet’s memory, form, teachings, and ashes. My own reliquary in memory of Ms. Moppet was the beginning. Since them I have designed reliquaries for others who wish to honor similar relationships.